Run for Cover

Michael Gannon #2

by Michael Ledwidge

The next installment in the pulse-pounding Gannon series, featuring murder, intrigue and a deadly new mystery that may just be his last…

Fresh from a lethal entanglement with some of the deepest and darkest players in the global intelligence services, Michael Gannon heads to the safest place he can think of: deep in the wilds of Utah on the ranch of one of his oldest and closest war buddies.

But when his friend’s brother is found dead in the rocky foothills of Grand Teton, Gannon realizes there are some things more important than keeping your head down. Is his death just one in a string of grisly murders mysteriously occurring around national parks—or a part of something even more sinister?

Flushed from cover, Gannon soon finds himself teamed up with a tenacious female FBI agent on the trail of a dangerous mystery and a head-on collision course with a ruthless killer whose skills at war are as deadly as they come.

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense, Crime, Action, Audiobook

322 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 2, 2021

About the author

Michael Ledwidge is the son of Irish parents and was born and raised in the Bronx. A graduate of Manhattan College, he is married and has two children.

As the co-author of a series of some of James Patterson’s most profitable books to date, Ledwidge has risen from an admired but, it’s fair to say, mostly unread author, to co-writing some of the most widely read books in the world. He’s made real money doing it, too, enough to change his life completely.

Reviews

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Run for Cover by Michael Ledwidge is an action packed thriller and the second book in the series featuring Michael Gannon. The story largely takes place in several states but largely in Wyoming and Utah. Mike Gannon and his son are staying on John Owen’s ranch in Utah. When John’s brother is killed in Wyoming, Mike goes with him to retrieve the body. But there is more going on than meets the eye and Mike teams up with FBI agent Kit Hagen to find the killer.

Mike and Kit are compelling characters with lots of depth. John is not quite as well-drawn, but is still compelling. They had distinct voices and their own flaws and virtues. The motivations were well-drawn and seemed believable. There were some plot twists and the stakes and tension were high throughout this thriller with the body count continually going higher. The author did a great job of giving a clear sense of place without being overly descriptive. There are several discussions of weapons and a discussion of serial killers. Other themes include family, revenge, greed, corruption, and much more.

Overall, the plot was intense, thought-provoking, suspenseful, entertaining and kept me fully engaged. The prose was well-written and engrossing. My only quibble is that there could have been a little more wrap up of certain situations after the action peaked. However, I still thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of Michael Ledwidge’s novels.

Thanks to HARLEQUIN – Trade Publishing (U S & Canada) – Hanover Square Press and Michael Ledwidge for an ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently scheduled for February 2, 2021.

[Pierre Tassé (Enjoying Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the book. So happy I got introduced to this writer. It could have been 4.5 stars but the ending was weak. It felt like he reached his quota for words and decided -that’s enough.

[Laur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Former Navy Seal and Ex-NYPD detective, the retired Michael Gannon is laying low because he’s made some powerful enemies in FBI/CIA. Plus he has secured a huge fortune in multiple millions in cash and rough cut diamonds that any of his current & future enemies would want. Now he’s forced to look over his shoulder most everywhere he goes.

Trying to lay low, taking his son camping at a resort that one of Gannon’s friend owns, a pretty female FBI agent Kit Hagen) who was recently shot and injured in the line of duty (subsequently on leave now), comes for a quick visit to call on John (which is Gannon’s friend who owns the resort and also happens to be the brother of the man who died while saving this female FBI agent.)

As she is paying her respects and recalls the heroism of John’s brother, they start a conversation that leads to plenty of questions. Too many unanswered questions and it appears there might be more to this story as they talk details about the gruesome murder and the murder of the rest of the government officials on the crime site, including John’s brother. This was a big crime scene, yet why HASN’T the media reported on it yet??! John eventually tells Kit he wants to show her something and shares the last video found on his brother’s phone as he was videoing the body of the dead girl they found right before he was shot and killed….Kit is in disbelief- then goes to get her computer to show them something that will completely put this situation in an uncontrollable spin. Gannon and Kit need answers and the truth; John seethes with anger and wants revenge on who murdered his brother!

Thus starts a chase down a rabbit hole. As they follow the clues, one thing after another starts to add up quickly this is something way different than what it first appeared to be. What interest does the FBI have in this case, why were so many other people killed in relation to the original victim, and why is the FBI itself looking sketchy….first dragging their feet, then identified to be the source of lies, concealment, and deception? Why?

Being that Kit is a Special Agent in the FBI, the FBI authorities are looking for her now - wanting to silence her for good before she can discover the reasons…she was there, she was shot, she was the only one to survive, but time is fast running out and she doesn’t have the answers or know who is pulling the strings or why. Fortunately for her, she has Mike Gannon on her side helping and protecting her, but both she and Gannon’s life are gravely in danger being hunted in their every move they make, every place they go.

This is a fast-paced story of detecting, action, suspense.

The narrator is brilliant. Recommend Audiobook.

[Kevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty much an unbelievable story line but still a lot of fun.

[Allison Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific, fast-paced thriller. I liked the first book in the series, this one was even better. The story was timely, the characters well-fleshed out and interesting, high-stakes, great setting. Can't wait for #3.

Note: I listened to the audio book; good narrator.

[Scott A. Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ledwidge has created a great character in Gannon. This is the second in the series and I highly recommend both.

This one started out a little like Yellowstone or Longmire and ended up a little like Clancy. Exciting. Great villains and outstanding outcome. Can’t wait for the next one.

[Timothy Neesam · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 Michael Ledwidge’s first book featuring Mike Gannon, Stop at Nothing, was note-perfect (retired NYC cop in the Bahamas seems to bite off more than he can chew, takes on a cabal of rogue FBI agents and, against the odds, comes out on top). In this second outing, the brother of Gannon’s best friend is killed during an investigation involving someone killing women in U.S. National Parks. The deeper Gannon gets into the case, the fewer things are what they appear. While it’s a fun read, and Gannon is a likable character, the book moves into non-stop action a little too quickly and involves, what, another, different FBI cabal? While the action sequences are well-done, relationships and secondary characters aren’t fleshed out and some scenes are rote (son and friend's daughter at the shooting range, honest FBI agents and judge who are willing to take on the cabal but seem to disappear as quickly as they appeared. The book finishes with an action sequence that wraps up way too quickly and leaves too many questions dangling. So, a good read, but I expect better from Mr. Ledwidge. Hoping the next book takes better advantage of the author's talent.

[E · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was terrible. Don’t read it.

The plot is implausible and the characters caricatures. All the good guys are tall and ex-military. The bad “guy” is a women with a “masculine jawline.”

Spoilers ahead...

A computer wiz kills the wife of his company’s CEO while on a camping trip. The CEO is trying to sell super secret “AI” software to China and apparently the wiz is the only person who understands it. (Because of course any software project this complex and valuable was completed by a single person.) Wiz tells CEO about murder.

But instead of hiding the body in, yknow, the woods the CEO calls in his corrupt FBI crony to make his wife’s killing look like a victim of a serial killer and then hires a super secret sniper team to kill the FBI agents who come to investigate. Because that’s how you keep thing secret, by shooting a bunch of cops.

Former super special SEAL Nick Gannon gets involved, hilarity ensues and the good guys win.

There, just gave you an hour or two of your life back.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Run for Cover, the second book in the Michael Gannon series, finds Mike laying low in Utah when his
friend's brother is killed in Wyoming. Owen Barber, a forest ranger, and the FBI team is ambushed
while investigating a murder scene near the Grand Tetons. The lone survivor, Agent Kit Hagen, joins
up with Mike and they start tracing down leads to a conspiracy. Action packed, fast paced thriller.
Looking forward to more with these two!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am liking this series. With a few more books like this...Gannon will have killed all the upper echelon bad guys.

[Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rated it five stars, and I’m sorry it couldn’t be ten.Ledwidge is a wonderful writer. Superb development of subject matter and characters. Creativity is off the charts. Writer just keeps getting better, and I will look forward to his next book.

[Linda · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book just did nothing for me. It was second in a series (first one was better, but not remarkable). Not only was there not enough “meat” to keep me interested, the plot line was implausible. Loose ends helped to set up the sequel, but I am not sure I care enough to read another.

[HTP Books]

Categories
Action & Adventure, International Mystery & Crime Fiction, Terrorism Thrillers, Thriller
Miniseries
Michael Gannon Series (Book #2)

[Vicki Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast-paced, easy read. Certainly implausible at times, but it kept me entertained.

[Ted Barringer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of what I hope will be many more in this series. Like most latter day heroes, Michael Gannon is a former soldier in Iraq and/or Afghanistan. Also, like Reacher, Ash, et. al; Michael lives off the grid, this time he has found himself in Utah. The action takes place mainly in Wyoming and Las Vegas. Lots of violence, a beautiful FBI agent, of course, a friend whose brother has been killed, high tech secrets, what's not to like?

What I really want to talk about is Mr. Ledwidge himself. Many years ago I read one of his early books, The Narrowback. I recall it being quite good and i was looking forward to more books from him. Then James Patterson happened. Somehow Mr. Ledwidge became entangled in the Spider's Web, see what I did there?, and became a writer for the franchise that is the former pedestrian writer James Patterson. Just stop! Mr. Ledwidge, you are better than that, tell James Patterson Enterprises to take a long walk of a short pier. Focus on Michael Gannon.

[WM D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Run for cover was a good audio book. I really enjoyed the characters in the audio book. This is the second one I listened to of his and I enjoyed every minute of it. A must read for anyone who likes fiction

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fast paced and thrilling, I enjoyed the audio book.

[Linda Jennings · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is like watching an action packed movie. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. The characters portrait in this book are awesome. Real to life characters.

[Mary Kamrath · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story continuing the tale of Michael Gannon, former cop. Written in a similar style to James Patterson, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

[Aaron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed it. But it wasn't as good as the first in the series, Stop At Nothing. Ledwidge set such a high bar with the first Gannon book. This one did not meet those lofty heights, but was thoroughly enjoyable. Most books tie everything up in a neat bow and gives all characters a happy ending. This ends abruptly after the action stops and they save the day. I actually like that it didn't get wrapped up

[Francesca · Rating 4 out of 5]

An action-packed mystery thriller that easily stands on its own, even if you haven't read the first book in the series. Ledwidge integrates background details of the protagonists, Mike Gannon, an ex-SEAL and retired NYPD detective, and FBI agent Kit Hagen, a BSU specialist, into the storyline. This allows readers to dive right into the heart of the action without feeling lost.
Character development in this novel is stellar. The author delves deep into the minds and motivations of Mike and Kit, making them relatable and three-dimensional. As they embark on a quest to apprehend the elusive NATPARK killer together, readers become emotionally invested in their journey. Their individual reasons for pursuing the serial killer make them compelling protagonists.
The story kicks off in the arid and wild landscapes of Wyoming, which initially provide an unsettling backdrop. However, the setting quickly transitions to cities like Denver, and San Francisco. This change in scenery keeps the story dynamic.
One of the highlights is the sharp and occasionally comical dialogue between Gannon, Hagen and John Barber. Ledwidge's mastery of replies and use of known establishments without naming them ("golden-arched paper cup") adds authenticity to character interactions and injects moments of humor into the suspenseful narrative, creating a well-rounded reading experience.
While the book is a fast-paced read, the storyline is convoluted, which might ordinarily feel clichéd. However, the overall execution and the compelling nature of the plot make this complexity more of an asset than a drawback.
In conclusion, this enthralling mystery and action thriller can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. Whether you're a fan of the genre or new to it, this book offers an adrenaline-pumping entertaining journey in the world of Mike Gannon.

[Bookreporter.com Mystery & Thriller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Between the pandemic affecting most of the country and snow blanketing a good deal of it, it’s understandable that people have decided to stay inside for the duration. May I suggest that you spend at least an evening of that downtime reading Michael Ledwidge’s RUN FOR COVER? It’s escapist literature at its very best.

This is the second installment in the Michael Gannon series, following STOP AT NOTHING, though you don’t have to be familiar with what has gone before to fully enjoy what is happening now. For our purposes, know that Gannon, an individual possessed of a hard-earned lethal set of skills, is wanted by several alphabet soup law enforcement agencies that are laboring under erroneous impressions about him.

Gannon is living off the radar in Utah, so much so that RUN FOR COVER starts without him. This worthy work begins in Wyoming, where a game warden has discovered the staged corpse of a woman in a remote area. He calls in law enforcement, which includes a local sheriff and two FBI agents. They have barely gathered when things go suddenly and horribly wrong, resulting in multiple casualties, all on the side of righteousness. Among the dead is the brother of the man who is providing Gannon and his son with shelter. While Gannon must keep his head down, he feels duty-bound to avenge the killer in the most effective and deserving way possible.

He finds himself paired up with Kit Hagen, one of the FBI agents who was at the original scene. It turns out that someone has been systematically killing women at National Park sites throughout the country. Hagen has been investigating the murders and was at the right place at the wrong time. There is more to this wrinkle --- Ledwidge is a master of the plot surprise --- and it isn’t long before Gannon and Hagen find themselves on the trail of an extremely capable killer who is hiding in plain sight.

What is especially interesting is that Hagen is working off the books. She has been ordered off the case, and for the flimsiest of reasons, just as she was beginning to make headway. This is so puzzling to her as she knows more about the series of murders than anyone else. There is an obvious cover-up going on here, and the only question is how far up the chain of command it goes. The answer will give one a nosebleed.

Once Gannon comes to within striking distance of the killer, his associates and their boss, he is more than capable of administering rough justice. However, the opposition has part of the might and majesty of the Federal government behind them, and as matters ultimately play out at a busy airport --- “play out” being code for “all hell breaking loose” --- there is the possibility that Gannon’s justice may be delayed and thus denied. You will stay up all night reading to find out.

Ledwidge has repeatedly demonstrated his considerable plotting and writing chops on his own, and as a coauthor of 13 books with James Patterson. But here he takes things to a whole new level. Put RUN FOR COVER at the top of your must-read pile.

Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub

[Donne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michael Ledwidge’s Michael Gannon series reminds me so much of his work on Patterson’s Michael Bennett series, which I ABSOLUTELY love. Ledwidge has proven that he definitely has some serious skills and abilities to produce his own exciting, action-packed, crime thrillers.

This new installment has Mike and his son, Declan, hiding out in the Utah dessert at an old military buddy’s compound, that is a private security training center for private security contractors. After his buddy’s brother, who is a Park Ranger for the Tetons National Park (just south of Yellowstone National Park) is killed, Mike, his buddy and a rogue FBI profiler set out to find out what happened to his buddy’s brother and why the FBI are covering it up.

Chaos and mayhem ensue, and I’m thoroughly captivated by the action to the point I had a hard time putting the book down, even stayed up really late last night just to finish it. The message is a familiar one we often see in so many of these types of stories and that is that there is a one set of rules, laws, privileges, and justice for the rich, connected and powerful (especially gazillion dollar tech moguls) and a whole other set for the rest of us.

[Wayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like Michael Ledwidge's 2nd Michael Gannon novel, Run For Cover is a page-turning delight....like a Saturday afternoon matinee double-feature back in the 50's. In this story, Gannon, along with his son, Declan, heads to Utah to spend time relaxing on his best friend and war buddy John Barber. When Barber's brother is found shot dead along with a couple of females in the Tetons of Wyoming, Gannon and Barber join FBI agent Kit Hagen on a search for the killer(s). It's the good guys in white hats against a bunch of bad guys in black hats (including a high-up FBI female, a California millionaire and his band of henchmen, and even Chinese Communists. Michael Ledwidge provides his readers with another exciting, fun ride.

[Bob Andrews · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t hate it but there wasn’t much special about “Run for Cover” by Patterson co-author Ledwidge. So disappointing. I thought “Stop at Nothing” was eye-opening but for a follow-up of Gannon, the author gives us this dishwater.

What was interesting about Gannon before was that his military skills remained hidden until needed and his girl sidekick was a hoot. This time, his sidekick is FBI Agent Kit Hagen, who gets booted from investigating her own case for reasons that are fuzzy.

The opening was great, and the ending was fitting but the whole plot was a slog to read. Frankly, I found it hard to engage with Hagen or Gannon, and the villain was, well, eh, the whole corrupt system - too many baddies.

[James · Rating 3 out of 5]

No spoiler in this review. Easy to read simple book, perfect for a summer day or trip on an airplane. Plot is not overly intense and relatively predictable. Lots of exaggerations and things that could never ever happen but fun to read. So if you’re looking for something like this could work for you.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, I have to start with the narrator: After listening to this second installment of the series, I can confidently say that Neil Hellegers is amazing. Yes, I will gush (and I am not a gusher). He is extremely talented. He made Gannon endearing. And I absolutely felt like I was right there with John Barber. It is difficult to separate the author from the storyteller (who in this case is really just the narrator). I think the narrator really makes this story and I am not sure I would actually like this story/style of writing if it were not for Neil. So, Neil, if you ever read this, I feel like we are friends after listening to your storyteling for 15ish hours. I feel sad I will not continue to listen to this story, because the audio is over...

Now for the actual story. Once again, I think Neil absolutely makes this story. The type and feel of the story is almost exactly like the first one, although at this point in time the reader understands that Gannon is a kickA** navy SEAL, which is more of a surprise that is discovered in book 1.

My ONE complaint about the audiobook is that early on, we hear a killer, and we pretty much know exactly who he is the next time he is mentioned in the book (and named) because we heard his accent right off the bat. It is one of those dilemmas I imagine in audionarration.

Ok, sorry, back to the actual story. The Michael Gannon series are so reminicent of the Bourne Identity stories and feel very cinematic (I know, that description is redundant). Once again, there is not really much plot, it is just running from one disaster to another. Even once the plot points were explained (again), nothing ACTUALLY makes sense when you think about it. The story hinges so importantly on some AI kid, Alex Novack, who is not even really mentioned until the end of the book. Alex got drugged up and ended up killing billinoaire Weber(?)s wife and ended up biting her and doing crazy stuff... Alex tells his billionaire friend and he does not care at all about the murder of his wife... and he tries to cover it up. I get that these billionaires are evil people, but even that seems so far fetched. I like the thread way more that Weber kills his own wife on accident and then tries to pawn this off on a serial killer.

You will go from one adventure to another. My favorite scenes were from the adventure in Denver. Don't try any of these things at home, kids. Gannon and his pal, Barber (and Kit, of course) do so many illegal things and we don't ever see them suffering the repercussions. They are the "Good guys" in this story, which is obviously fun, but evenso, how many cars can you steal and destroy without anyone catching on to you... especially if the powers that be have access to crazy ID technology (reference book 1, please!).

Anyway, if you like book 1, you should like book 2. I recommend giving the audiobook a try, for real! This book is pure adventureous entertainment, and just enjoy the crazy ride. Don't give it too much thought (except I love the theme of bringing down the bad people, no matter how crazy rich and powerful they are. Justice is served!).

I will part with one of my favorite (summarized) quotes by Gannon/Barber,
"Enjoy hell, you can't take that fortune with you,"
"Actually, yes, you will have your money there, but all the shops are closed."

[Yvonne (It's All About Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finished reading: July 3rd 2025

"You are doing your job. It's your bosses that are pulling some kind of shenanigans. You and me are just here to un-pull them."

REVIEW

I had such a great time with the first book of this series recently, and I decided to read the rest of the series while memories of the main character are still fresh. This series is 100% action thriller and the books read like your typical Hollywood action movie blockbuster... It is key to be able to suspend your disbelief, but if you are able to simply sit back and enjoy the ride you are without doubt in for another wild one. Run For Cover is set a little after the first book and while technically you could read it as a stand-alone as it doesn't directly relate to what happens Stop At Nothing, I personally wouldn't recommend it as you will be missing out on the main character's background and display of skills. That said, trouble seems to be following Michael Gannon, and he is in for another dangerous ride... Although this time around he decides to join willingly. Run For Cover is slightly different than the first book as it has that conspiracy vibe going on, which I confess isn't my favorite, but somehow the constant action made it easy to forget about it. Gannon and the other characters travel all over the US as they are hunting for the truth while also playing a cat-and-mouse game with those who are trying to hide it... Like I said before, if you enjoy high speed and intense action thrillers that aren't afraid to go over the top to deliver you an exhilarating ride, this series is what you are looking for whenever you need another dose. I sure will be back for more with book number three!

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I sought an escapist thriller with a complex mystery. Got it in spades.

This mystery & action thriller is my first book by new-to-me author, Michael Ledwidge. It’s easily read as a stand-alone, because the protagonists’ background details are integrated into the story. Character building of the protagonists—Mike Shannon who is an ex-SEAL and retired NYPD detective, and FBI agent Kit Hagen, a BSU specialist—is stellar. Each has their own reasons to hunt the serial killer, but their quest for answers is hindered by more powerful but unknown persons. The arid and wild, wide-open spaces were unsettling at first, but happily for me, the setting shifted to cities.

This was a fast read, which I enjoyed, although I admit that the details in this convoluted storyline might ordinarily feel OTT and clichéd. However, I sought out an escapist thriller and murder mystery, so this book was exactly what I needed. So, please note that my rating reflects my state of mind, for which I offer no apologies.

[Emma Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series and it starts with Gannon and his son laying low on a friend’s land in Utah. What happened with his pals in the Bahamas? Is he ever going to go back there? These are questions left unanswered by this book and I found it a little annoying that we are working with a whole new cast of characters. The only recurring character we have is his son Declan, who was trying out for a big league baseball team, but is now just hanging out in Utah.

Even though the characters are new, Kit, John, Westergaard and Dawn are all interesting characters. The book is very similar to the first in the series, people are found dead and there is a government coverup. I found the plot interesting and the book was well written (again in tiny chapters). It is a good suspense novel, the reasoning and persons behind the crime are really perplexing at first, but as more clues come to light the more it makes sense. I am excited to read the next book and maybe find out more about the cast of characters from book one.